OurJICShighlight Clinical illness aspects of heatstroke: ahottopic

Each quarter, we spotlight an article of interest in the latest edition of JICS -up this timeinthemidstofsummerisanimportantarticleonheatstroke.

Heatstroke represents the most severe end of the heat illness spectrum, and is increasingly seen in those undergoing exercise or exertion (‘exertional heatstroke’) andthoseexposedtohighambienttemperatures,forexampleinheatwaves(‘classical heatstroke’). Both forms may be associated with significant thermal injury, leading to organdysfunctionandtheneedforadmissiontoanintensivecareunit

This narrative review highlights the importance of early diagnosis, rapid cooling and effective management of complications. It discusses the incidence, clinical features andtreatmentofheatstroke,anddiscussesthepossibleroleofintestinalpermeability and advances in follow-up and recovery of this condition Optimum treatment involves an integrated input from prehospital, emergency department and critical careteams,alongwithfollow-upbyrehabilitationteamsand,ifappropriate,sportsor clinicalphysiologists.

With thanks to Jesal Patel, Naomi Boyer, Kwabena Mensah, Syeda Haider, Oliver Gibson,DanielMartinandEdwardWalter.